Real Madrid 1 – 1 Tottenham – Quick Reaction from the Champions League

Real Madrid and Tottenham drew 1-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu. It was a hard-fought ninety minutes of fast-paced action, with both goalkeepers playing an essential role. Here’s your quick-take reaction.

Real Madrid’s midfield was way too permeable throughout the match. Tottenham created a number of dangerous attacks by bypassing the midfield and dribbling straight through. Aurier also caused Marcelo some serious problems on the wings, especially in the first half.

It was an Aurier cross that ultimately lead to the opening goal, an own-goal from Varane. Varane was pretty unlucky to get the own goal, but he definitely could have done better on his clearance. For the most part Varane played well, but his small mistake ended up costing Madrid two points in the group.

Aurier matched his positive contribution with a negative one not long after, hacking down Toni Kroos who had a dangerous opportunity in Tottenham’s box. Ronaldo slotted away the resulting penalty, in what would ultimately be the last goal of the match.

The real heroes for both teams were the goalkeepers. Hugo Lloris foot save on Karim Benzema’s header was one of the most impressive saves I’ve ever seen, even if there may have been a bit of luck to it.

And that was just the beginning. Lloris and Ronaldo seemed locked in an eternal battle for supremacy, and barring the penalty, Ronaldo was unable to get the best of the French keeper.

Keylor Navas also played his part for Real Madrid, being called into action time and time again to keep Real Madrid level. Perhaps the most impressive was his save on a dangerous Harry Kane break through the middle, pushing it just wide for a corner.

Tottenham are probably the most relieved by this draw. Taking away a point from the Bernabéu in Champions League play is no small feat. And especially given the chances Real Madrid created, a draw has to feel like a good result.

Real Madrid are starting to have a real problem with converting the chances they are creating. The xG map from above demonstrates that Real Madrid created the chances they needed to win the match, but they simply could not convert. Granted, this time Hugo Lloris’ heroics had a lot to do with that. But still, this is becoming a problem time and time again.

A few other notes:

Isco didn’t have the best game. He did well dribbling with the ball and had some great moments winning back possession, but his passing was really poor.

Achraf Hakimi is slowly but surely winning his way into this Real Madrid squad. He performed well in his Champions League debut, and is showing he has what it takes to claim a regular spot in Real Madrid’s first team. Carvajal’s absence has given Achraf the opportunity to shine, and the young right-back has not given it a second thought.

Next: Scouting the enemy: Tottenham Hotspur

Stay tuned to The Real Champs for more coverage of the Champions League match.